Quick fix stress busters

One of these more unusual methods in stress management might work for you

There are many tools and techniques for stress relief. A healthy lifestyle, plenty of sleep, good time management skills, and having an organised home and workplace will all help to prevent burnout. You can try meditation, relaxation training, attend stress courses or workshops, to help you learn to relax. These methods do work when practiced regularly. However, many people have found their own individual stress solutions.

The following 5 tools might just make your stressful days a bit easier:

Sing. Music and the sound of your own voice singing, will release tension and stress. Sing in your car, in the shower, at home, or wherever you feel comfortable. Release inhibitions and have fun. If you also want to release some pent-up emotions and energy, add some dance moves.

Try a repetitive activity such as knitting, crochet, pottery, painting, or anything with soothing movements. Don’t worry about creating a masterpiece or even developing a skill – it’s the process that’s beneficial. Sitting peacefully while focusing all your attention on performing repetitive movements can be quite calming and balancing. It can also be a valuable opportunity to collect your thoughts.

Start a garden. You don’t need a large one or even any garden. Balcony space or indoor pots would also do. Planting, caring for and harvesting your own plants and flowers; watching them grow, bloom, or yield fruit and vegetables is very relaxing and rewarding. Spending time in your own garden is one of the best ways to control stress and worry. Planting and using your own herbs will also enhance health and wellbeing.

Play with a child, dog or cat. It’s nearly impossible to feel negative or tense when you’re playing with a joyful child, stroking a kitten or walking a dog. It’s a form of social interaction with no pressure to meet anyone’s expectations!

Gaze at the stars. Sit or lie back and observe the heavens. If you’re the intellectual type, try to identify some constellations and planets. If you want to be more creative and integrate right and left brain function, imagine figures and stories in the stars. If you have kids, this could be a wonderful family activity. If it’s chilly out, wrap yourself in a blanket. Contemplating the vastness of the universe in this way can make your problems seem very small.